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Greying Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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greying

[หˆษกreษช.ษชล‹ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

hair color

Greying refers to the process of hair turning grey or white due to the loss of melanin, the pigment that gives hair its color. This natural phenomenon usually occurs with aging, as the body produces less melanin over time. Stress, genetics, and certain health conditions can also contribute to premature greying. While greying is often seen as a sign of aging, many individuals embrace their grey hair as a part of their identity.

Synonyms

graying, whitening.

Examples of usage

  • She started greying in her early thirties.
  • His beard was completely grey after years of hard work.
  • Many people choose to dye their greying hair.
  • The greying process can be slowed with a healthy lifestyle.
Context #2 | Noun

hair change

The term greying is also used as a noun to describe the process or state of hair changing to a grey color. It is often associated with the aging process, but can occur for various reasons including genetic factors or stress. The term can also metaphorically describe situations or individuals that become less vibrant or lively over time.

Synonyms

graying, whitening.

Examples of usage

  • Her greying was celebrated as a mark of wisdom.
  • He embraced his greying as a sign of maturity.
  • The greying in society often indicates a shift in demographics.
  • The artist's greying provided depth to his work.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • In films and literature, characters' grey hair often symbolizes wisdom, experience, or transitioning to a significant life phase.
  • Greying hair is sometimes featured in superhero narratives, representing a characterโ€™s evolution or the burden of time.
  • Pop music has also referenced greying as a metaphor for aging gracefully or the passage of time, resonating with many listeners.

Biology

  • Hair greying occurs due to the gradual reduction of melanin production in hair follicles, a natural part of aging.
  • Stress may accelerate the greying process by affecting the cells that produce the pigment responsible for hair color.
  • Genetic factors also play a crucial role, with some individuals experiencing greying in their 20s while others may not see it until much later.

Psychology

  • Societal perceptions often associate greying with wisdom, leading individuals to embrace their greys as signs of maturity.
  • In some cultures, greying can influence social roles, with older adults often being seen as more authoritative or trustworthy.
  • The psychological impact of greying can vary; some feel more confident, while others may struggle with how society views aging.

Fashion

  • Greying hair has become a fashion statement, with many opting to embrace their natural color rather than dye it.
  • Hair trends have included the use of special dyes to achieve an intentional grey look, especially among younger demographics.
  • Grey and silver tones have been celebrated in runway shows, showcasing a shift in how society views aging and beauty.

Origin of 'greying'

Main points about word origin

  • The word originates from Old English, where 'grวฝg' means grey.
  • It's related to other Germanic words for grey, indicating a long-standing recognition of color changes in aging.
  • In many languages, the word for grey is associated with wisdom, reflecting the traditional view of grey hair as a sign of experience.

The word 'greying' comes from the verb 'grey', which itself has origins in Middle English 'gray', derived from Old English 'grวฝg'. The transition of the word into its modern form was influenced by Norman French 'greye'. Originally, 'grey' was used to describe both color and the process in terms of textiles and hair. The spelling 'graying' is more commonly used in American English, while 'greying' is predominant in British English. Over time, the term has evolved to encompass not only the physical change of hair color but also metaphorical interpretations related to aging and the passage of time. The phenomenon of hair greying has been culturally significant, often symbolizing wisdom, experience, and the natural cycle of life. In literature and media, greying characters are frequently depicted as wise mentors, reinforcing the association between grey hair and accumulated knowledge.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #33,022 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.